1968 Heatilator Fireplace: updating glass doors and fans

[Cindy1078]

I'm renovating a large 1968 Heatilator fireplace that has two vents on both sides of the tumbled marble fireplace surround with old fans in the bottom vent that no longer works. There is also another fireplace in the basement that seems to be connected to the vents on this fireplace. Originally, there was a glass bifold door that needs to be replaced. We are looking to install a new glass door and need recommendation on what kind of door would make this fireplace most efficient? Is it best to install a door that has ceramic glass so the door can be kept closed while in use with a front vent? My research indicates a tempered glass door needs to be open when using the fireplace. Also, is it necessary to replace the vent fans? If so, any recommendations on where to purchase them? The opening is 42" wide x 27" high. See the photos. Any help would be greatly apprecaited!

 

[begreen]

Look at Stoll fireplace doors for starters. They will make the fireplace a little bit less inefficient if the doors are closed when the fire has died down to coals.

Glass Fireplace Doors | Stoll Industries | Browse by Fireplace Type or Style

Custom, hand-crafted glass fireplace doors from a third-generation company with over 50 years of experience in the fireplace industry.

www.stollindustries.com

The fans could be replaced with axial fans that match the specifications and size from Grainger or McMaster-Carr. Or take it to a local electric motor repair shop for a replacement.

Better yet would be to install a wood-burning insert if the intent is to get some efficient heat from the fireplace.

 

[Cindy1078]

Look at Stoll fireplace doors for starters. They will make the fireplace a little bit less inefficient if the doors are closed when the fire has died down to coals.

Glass Fireplace Doors | Stoll Industries | Browse by Fireplace Type or Style

Custom, hand-crafted glass fireplace doors from a third-generation company with over 50 years of experience in the fireplace industry.

www.stollindustries.com

The fans could be replaced with axial fans that match the specifications and size from Grainger or McMaster-Carr. Or take it to a local electric motor repair shop for a replacement.

Better yet would be to install a wood-burning insert if the intent is to get some efficient heat from the fireplace.

Thank you for the info. I considered inserting a wood-buring insert but after finding out this is a Heatilator unit with a metal interior box, isn't it similar to an inset especially if I install a ceramic glass door?

 

[begreen]

At best, with glass doors the fireplace may be 10-25% efficient depending on how it's run. . A good insert will be 65-75% efficient. It's a huge difference.

 

[bholler]

Thank you for the info. I considered inserting a wood-buring insert but after finding out this is a Heatilator unit with a metal interior box, isn't it similar to an inset especially if I install a ceramic glass door?

No not similar at all. The double wall box of the heatilator may be similar. But the combustion efficiency of an insert is simply not possible with an open fireplace

 

[Poindexter]

Do you want the "look" of a working fireplace in shoulder seasons, or do you want useful heat for your home out of that area of the floor plan?